Episode 1
Fighting Pandemics
47m6.7 / 10
Viral outbreaks can become deadly pandemics in a matter of days. To prevent catastrophe, courageous scientists are fighting back with new treatments and vaccines.
Episode credits
Directed by Peter Berg
TV series
Breakthrough
2015TV-PG2 seasons5.9 / 10
A Global Series Event
Providing a thought-provoking and imaginative perspective on scientific discovery as it unfolds, each episode follows scientific explorers working on cutting-edge projects with breakthrough potential, revealing the world of tomorrow... today.
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Where to watch in United States
Checked Jul 22, 2026
Breakthrough is available to stream on Disney+, Fubo, and Tubi in United States. You can also rent or buy it from Google Play, Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
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Synopsis
Providing a thought-provoking and imaginative perspective on scientific discovery as it unfolds, each episode follows scientific explorers working on cutting-edge projects with breakthrough potential, revealing the world of tomorrow... today.
Season 1 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Where to watch Breakthrough
Episode 2
More Than Human
47m8.0 / 10
Scientific advancements are challenging the concept of what it means to be human. In the near future, enhancing the human body with technology could lead to the next stage of our evolution.
Episode credits
Directed by Paul Giamatti
Episode 3
Decoding the Brain
47m8.0 / 10
Using powerful new technologies, scientists are seeking solutions to a variety of mental illnesses by exploring unmapped facets of the human brain.
Episode credits
Directed by Brett Ratner
Episode 4
The Age of Aging
47m8.0 / 10
New discoveries may help us slow or even turn back our biological clocks.
Episode credits
Directed by Ron Howard
Episode 5
Energy From the Edge
47m8.0 / 10
Reliance on fossil fuels is leading us into a global energy crisis. If we act now, developments in energy production could avert disaster and usher in a new era of clean, safe energy.
Episode credits
Directed by Akiva Goldsman
Episode 6
Water Apocalypse
47m7.0 / 10finale
Earth is facing the devastating loss of a vital resource: clean water. Now, innovators across the globe are seeking solutions in emergent technologies to prevent a planet-wide water crisis.
Episode credits
Directed by Angela Bassett
Episode information updated Jul 25, 2026
More about Breakthrough
Cast
Mike ColterNarrator (voice)Credits
- Created by
- Ron Howard
Production details
- Status
- Ended
- Series type
- Documentary
- Episodes
- 12
- Original language
- English
Networks & production
National GeographicUnited States
Imagine EntertainmentUnited States
Asylum EntertainmentUnited States
Themes
innovationtechnology
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